New Broad Ripple restaurant embodies 'capitalism with a cause'

It is an unusual concept in the business world: A restaurant where all the profits go back to the community. However, it is the latest idea from the owner of well-known Indianapolis restaurant company, Patachou.

The latest restaurant, Public Greens, opened on Friday right along the Monon Trail in Broad Ripple.

"I think this general culture around here tends to embrace something like this, so I think this is the perfect place for it to be," said Sunday morning customer Amber Illig.

All of the proceeds from Public Greens benefit the Patachou Foundation, which gives healthy after-school meals to 200-300 kids a week.

"It's capitalism with a cause," said Martha Hoover, President and Owner of Patachou Inc.

Hoover said the new charitable concept works because with 10 other restaurants, the company is stable.

"Most businesses, most people think that unless you are uber wealthy and uber successful, you cannot give financially. We would like to show that it does not take an extraordinary level to do something really good," Hoover said.

The chalkboard menu changes often, and includes harissa whipped sweet potatoes, local salads and meats.

Customers won't have to go far to find the source of what they are eating. Right across the Monon, there is a small farm. Eventually, everything grown on the farm will be served at the restaurant.

"We have a dedicated farmer and the farmer is growing greens and root vegetables that we use here," Hoover said.

On Sunday morning, Amy and Jason Mackey brought their three kids in to try out the new spot.

"It was that sort of local mission that resonated with us," Jason Mackey said. "We are part of the community here and we wanted to do our part."

Public Greens is located at 900 east 64th street. The restaurant opens at 8:00 every morning.

To find out more about The Patachou Foundation, click here.